Industrial Research (Engineer) Associate

RDP

Red Deer

On-site

CAD 76,000 - 83,000

Full time

14 days+

Get more replies from employers

Send a job-specific resume in minutes.

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive benefits package
Holiday time off during Christmas/New 

Job summary

Red Deer Polytechnic invites applications for an Industrial Research Associate, an entry-level engineering position focused on evaluating, researching and developing energy-related ideas and prototypes for client needs.

The incumbent must be registered with APEGA as an Engineer in Training or a Professional Engineer, and will troubleshoot power systems, designs and assemblies in a fast-paced applied research environment at the Energy Innovation Centre in Red Deer.

Qualifications

  • Master’s degree in electrical engineering with a focus on energy, power systems, simulation or related field.
  • Minimum of 1 year experience in electrical engineering or similar role.
  • Registered with APEGA as Engineer in Training (E.I.T.) or Professional Engineer (P.Eng.).
  • Experience with microcontrollers, programming, power system analysis and design.
  • Experience with power system modeling, simulation, and analysis tools (e.g., CMYE Models, ETAP, DIgSILENT PowerFactory, PSCAD, MATLAB/Simulink).
  • Exposure to emerging energy trends such as AI in energy, green hydrogen, internet of energy, digital manufacturing.

Responsibilities

  • Provide engineering advice on ad-hoc basis or as part of an applied research project with the team.
  • Support technical requirements on external client projects and internal R&D projects, executing per scope and deliverables.
  • Develop cost-effective solutions for client-directed research considering feasibility, environmental impact and safety.
  • Apply IoT, machine learning and data analytics to energy innovation projects as applicable.
  • Develop validation strategies for designs using standard and non-standard testing methods.
  • Collaborate with engineers, technologists, faculty, managers and staff.
  • Estimate and establish cost parameters and budgets for design.
  • Modify existing products or processes to increase efficiency or performance.
  • Maintain professional knowledge through workshops and publications.

Skills

Microcontrollers
Programming
Power systems analysis
Renewable energy sizing
Energy modeling tools

Education

Master's in Electrical Engineering
APEG APEGA registration (E.I.T./P.Eng.)
1 year electrical engineering experience

Tools

ETAP
DIgSILENT PowerFactory
PSCAD
MATLAB/Simulink
CMYE Models

Job description

Please see Special Instructions for more details.

This Term-Certain position is not eligible for conversion to permanent status as the position is contingent on conditional funding

Position Information
Position Title
Position Summary

The Industrial Research Associate is an entry-level engineering position who will be responsible for evaluating, researching and developing new ideas and prototypes to support our client needs. The incumbent must be registered with APEGA as an Engineer in Training or a Professional Engineer. In this dynamic, fast paced and applied research environment, the incumbent will be troubleshooting and problem-solving power systems, designs, and assembly. The ideal candidate enjoys solving challenging problems and working with other members in Applied Research and the RDP team as well as the companies we serve.

The Industrial Research Associate is detail-oriented, results-driven, and organized. The incumbent will create engineering designs, collaborate with key suppliers, and work with the teams technical staff in the deployment of energy solutions. The Industrial Research Associate may also be involved in projects to improve the performance and efficiency of existing systems and products.

The Energy Innovation Centre ( EIC ) at Red Deer Polytechnic was originally established in 2019 as the Alternative Energy Lab ( AEL ). The purpose of this lab was to operate as a physical and virtual research hub for the community. The primary objective is to collect, analyze, and validate emerging clean technologies, catering to businesses, municipalities, post-secondary institutions, and individuals.

The AEL developed into EIC , which aims to promote the adoption of clean technologies in Central Alberta and beyond. By conducting research and providing reliable data, EIC facilitates the identification and validation of clean technologies that have the potential to contribute to a sustainable energy future. By acting as a neutral and trusted applied research resource, the Centre facilitates the collaboration and knowledge sharing to drive innovation and ultimately increase adoption of clean technologies.

Position Responsibilities
Expert Advice
  • Provide engineering advice on an ad-hoc basis or as part of an applied research project with the team
  • Support technical requirements on both external customer projects and internal research and development projects, executing as per the scope and deliverables
  • Develop solutions for client-directed applied research considering implementation of innovative technologies in a cost-effective manner, including design feasibility, environmental impact and safety
  • Apply concepts of internet of things, machine learning and data analytics, process automation to energy innovation projects as applicable
  • Develop a validation strategy for designs using both standard and non-standard testing methods
  • Apply industrial standards and certification to applied research projects
  • Collaborate with other engineers, technologists, faculty, managers, and business and administrative team
  • Estimate and establish cost parameters and budgets for design
  • Modify existing products or processes to increase efficiency or improve performance
  • Maintain professional and technical knowledge by attending educational workshops; reviewing professional publications; establishing personal networks; participating in professional societies
Business Development
  • Ensure projects are completed on time and within budget and maintain strong relationship with customers for future business growth
  • Share knowledge through workshops
  • Prepare effective proposals, presentations, and demonstrations for clients and potential customers
  • Develop and grow customer relationships by personal visits, phone calls, follow-ups, e-mails etc.
Required Qualifications
  • Master’s degree in electrical engineering or related field, with a focus on energy, power systems, simulation or related field
  • Minimum of 1 (one) year experience in electrical engineering or similar role
  • Registered with the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta ( APEGA ), as Engineer in Training (E.I.T.) or Professional Engineer (P.Eng.)
  • Experience with microcontrollers, programming, power system analysis and design, renewable energy sizing and design
  • Experience with power system modeling, simulation, and analysis tools (e.g., CMYE Models, ETAP , DIgSILENT PowerFactory, PSCAD , MATLAB /Simulink)
  • Exposure to emerging energy trends, such as artificial intelligence in the energy sector, green hydrogen energy, internet of energy, digital manufacturing, additive manufacturing
  • Demonstrated ability to independently perform analytical and experimental research work
  • Ability to convey progress through written reports and oral presentations
  • Proficient in analytical, organizational and time management skills to complete work with accuracy and attention to detail
  • Ability to integrate creativity into solving a variety of problems ranging in complexity
Preferred Qualifications

Salary or Hourly?

Salary $75,663 - $83,420 annually

Benefits and Compensation Information
  • Red Deer College offers a comprehensive benefits package including extended health and dental care through Blue Cross, access to a health spending account, pension plan, generous vacation allotments, credit tuition waivers and opportunities for professional development funding.
  • Additional time off due to College closures between Christmas and New Year general holidays.

Eligibility to access the above mentioned benefits dependent upon the EXEMPT Terms and conditions of Employment and related RDC policies.

About Red Deer Polytechnic

Focused on advancing the economic and social priorities of Alberta, Red Deer Polytechnic ( RDP ) provides more than 100 industry-relevant credit and non-credit programs to approximately 11,000 credit, non-credit and apprenticeship students. With modern teaching and learning spaces, and state-of-the-art research and innovation centres, RDP provides education and applied research opportunities in partnership with industry and communities.

Red Deer Polytechnic’s main campus is located on Treaty 7, Treaty 6 and Métis ancestral lands. This is where we will strive to honour and transform our relationships with one another.

Whatever brings you to Red Deer Polytechnic, we are glad you are here. And we look forward to having you as a valued member of our polytechnic community .

Competition Number

Competition Number 2026-E-017

Employment Type

Employment Type Term-Certain Full-Time

Number of Vacancies

Number of Vacancies 1

Desired Start Date

Desired Start Date 09/02/2026

Position End Date (if term-certain)

Position End Date (if term-certain) 03/31/2030

FTE

FTE 1.0

Hours of Work

Hours of Work You will be employed on a full-time basis. It is understood that the hours of work involved will vary and be irregular and are those hours of work required to meet the objectives of your employment. Normal hours of operation are 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, M –F

Open Date

Open Date 08/02/2026

Close Date

Open Until Filled Yes

Note to Applicant

Red Deer Polytechnic fosters an inclusive learning and working environment where everyone can bring their full selves and share their unique talents. We are committed to being responsive to the evolving needs and expectations of our diverse community.

At RDP, we are committed to a merit-based hiring process, and we believe in an inclusive workplace that is fair, equitable, supportive, welcoming and respectful. We recognize, value, and leverage differences in identities, abilities, background, cultures, skills, experiences, and perspectives. Our practices are guided by the principles of the Alberta Human Rights Act and support the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action.

Red Deer Polytechnic will provide job applicants with accommodations in accordance with the Alberta Human Rights Code. To request an accommodation, please contact Peopleandculture@rdpolytech.ca

Special Instructions to Applicants

This Term-Certain position is not eligible for conversion to permanent status as the position is contingent on conditional funding

Supplemental Questions

Required fields are indicated with an asterisk (*).

Documents Needed To Apply

Required Documents

  • Cover Letter
  • Resume

Optional Documents

  • References Names and Contact Information
  • Letter of Recommendation
Get your free, confidential resume review.
or drag and drop your file here.
Similar jobs

Similar jobs worth comparing

Project Coordinator, Applied Research
Project Coordinator, Applied Research

Red-Deer-Polytechnic-1 • Red Deer

On-site
CAD 69,000 - 77,000
Senior Project Manager, Campus Capital & Operational Projects
Senior Project Manager, Campus Capital & Operational Projects

Red Deer Polytechnic • Red Deer

On-site
CAD 95,000 - 115,000
Extended health and dental care
Health spending account
Pension plan
+4
Applied Research Technician III: Community Mapping and Red Flag Awareness
Applied Research Technician III: Community Mapping and Red Flag Awareness

Red-Deer-Polytechnic-1 • Red Deer

On-site
CAD 3,189,000 - 3,731,000
15% in lieu of vacation
Placement Officer (Full-Time Term-Certain)
Placement Officer (Full-Time Term-Certain)

RDP • Red Deer

On-site
CAD 36,000 - 52,000
Salary: CAD 32.32/hour
Manager, Facility & Campus Space Planning Management
Manager, Facility & Campus Space Planning Management

Red-Deer-Polytechnic-1 • Red Deer

On-site
CAD 95,000 - 115,000
Extended health and dental care
Health spending account
Pension plan
+3
Digital Media and Public Relations Subject Matter Expert / Curriculum Developer
Digital Media and Public Relations Subject Matter Expert / Curriculum Developer

RDP • Red Deer

On-site
CAD 55,000 - 83,000
Business Development Specialist
Business Development Specialist

RDP • Red Deer

On-site
CAD 80,000 - 94,000
Health and dental benefits
Pension plan
Vacation leave
+2
Dean, Indigenous Initiatives
Dean, Indigenous Initiatives

RDP • Red Deer

Hybrid
CAD 140,000 - 190,000
Extended health and dental care
Pension plan
Vacation allotments
+2
Accessibility Services Lead
Accessibility Services Lead

Red-Deer-Polytechnic-1 • Red Deer

On-site
CAD 82,000 - 93,000
Extended health and dental care
Pension plan
Generous vacation allotments
Exam Invigilators (Casual Pool)
Exam Invigilators (Casual Pool)

RDP • Red Deer

Hybrid
CAD 22,000 - 29,000